2. A survivor's story
But FGM is not just about numbers and figures, it's about individuals.
We're now beginning to learn far more about the physical, pyschological and social impact this practice has on an individual's health and wellbeing.
What does living with FGM mean for a woman? How can we best provide support as healthcare professionals? Of course, each story is different. The images and stories used in this resource were recorded during a creative workshop where survivors of FGM shared their experiences in order to help you understand their perspectives.
Watch this video to hear one survivor's story.
Transcript
I was a happy little girl
One morning mamma said
Time to become a woman
That chilly dark morning
I will never forget it
I closed my eyes
Cut. Cut. Cut.
Then I stood in a pool of my own blood
I was gone
A part of me was gone
My voice was gone
No. No. No.
My voice is not gone
It’s here with me
I have it
Just listen to me
Listen to my voice
Don’t judge me
Stand with me
Respect me
My voice is the voice of others
Others who can speak now
Of course I became a woman
I am a woman of dignity
I am a woman with a purpose
A purpose to be a voice for the voiceless